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TDCS is one of the most commonly used methods among studies with transcranial electrical stimulation and motor skills learning. Differences between study results suggest that the effect of tDCS on motor learning is dependent on the motor task performed or on the tDCS assembly specification used in the learning process. This systematic review aimed to analyze the tDCS effect on motor learning and verify whether this effect is dependent on the task or tDCS assembly specifications. Searches were performed in PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Embase, and PsycINFO. Articles were included that analyzed the effect of tDCS on motor learning through pre-practice, post-practice, retention, and/or transfer tests (period ≥24 h). The tDCS was most frequently applied to the primary motor cortex (M1) or the cerebellar cortex (CC) and the majority of studies found significant stimulation effects. Studies that analyzed identical or similar motor tasks show divergent results for the tDCS effect, even when the assembly specifications are the same. The tDCS effect is not dependent on motor task characteristics or tDCS assembly specifications alone but is dependent on the interaction between these factors. This interaction occurs between uni and bimanual tasks with anodal uni and bihemispheric (bilateral) stimulations at M1 or with anodal unihemispheric stimulations (unilateral and centrally) at CC, and between tasks of greater or lesser difficulty with single or multiple tDCS sessions. Movement time seems to be more sensitive than errors to indicate the effects of tDCS on motor learning, and a sufficient amount of motor practice to reach the "learning plateau" also seems to determine the effect of tDCS on motor learning.

Obesity is related to negative changes in insulin resistance and liver enzymes and is associated with the risk factor for the development of type II diabetes mellitus and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. A number of studies have demonstrated that aerobic exercise shows promise for disease prevention and treatment in this population. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a walking exercise program with self-selected intensity on insulin resistance and liver enzymes in obese women. Forty-eight obese women (47.8 ± 8.4 years; 88.1 ± 12.0 kg; 158.0 ± 0.1 cm) were divided into two groups: control group (CG; n = 23) and self-selected walking group (SSWG; n = 25). Before and after the exercise program, all subjects underwent anthropometric measurements and blood samples were collected. The intervention consisted of a walking exercise program with self-selected intensity for 12 weeks (3 times/week, totalizing 36 sessions). After the exercise program, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and HOMA improved only in the SSWG (p 0.05). In addition, there were no differences in liver enzymes after the intervention in both groups (p > 0.05). The results support that a walking exercise program with self-selected intensity improved insulin resistance in obese women. Thus, exercise programs with self-selected intensity seem to be an interesting alternative for improving health and preventing diseases.

Background Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been used to improve exercise performance, though the protocols used, and results found are mixed. Objective We aimed to analyze the effect of tDCS on improving exercise performance. Methods A systematic search was performed on the following databases, until December 2017: PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and SportDiscus. Full-text articles that used tDCS for exercise performance improvement in adults were included. We compared the effect of anodal (anode near nominal target) and cathodal (cathode near nominal target) tDCS to a sham/control condition on the outcome measure (performance in isometric, isokinetic or dynamic strength exercise and whole-body exercise). Results 22 studies (393 participants) were included in the qualitative synthesis and 11 studies (236 participants) in the meta-analysis. The primary motor cortex (M1) was the main nominal tDCS target (n = 16; 72.5%). A significant effect favoring anodal tDCS (a-tDCS) applied before exercise over M1 was found on cycling time to exhaustion (mean difference = 93.41 s; 95%CI = 27.39 s–159.43 s) but this result was strongly influenced by one study (weight = 84%), no effect was found for cathodal tDCS (c-tDCS). No significant effect was found for a-tDCS applied on M1 before or during exercise on isometric muscle strength of the upper or lower limbs. Studies regarding a-tDCS over M1 on isokinetic muscle strength presented mixed results. Individual results of studies using a-tDCS applied over the prefrontal and motor cortices either before or during dynamic muscle strength testing showed positive results, but performing meta-analysis was not possible. Conclusion For the protocols tested, a-tDCS but not c-tDCS vs. sham over M1 improved exercise performance in cycling only. However, this result was driven by a single study, which when removed was no longer significant. Further well-controlled studies with larger sample sizes and broader exploration of the tDCS montages and doses are warranted.

Objetivo: Investigar los efectos psicofisiológicos de la música motivacional durante 5km de carrera. Métodos: Trece corredores aficionados fueron sometidos a dos condiciones experimentales aleatorias durante 5km de carrera. Análisis de espectroscopia funcional de infrarrojos fueron utilizados previamente para investigar las cualidades motivacionales de la música y su activación en el córtex prefrontal. Durante el ejercicio propuesto, los cambios psicofisiológicos (rendimiento; percepción subjetiva de esfuerzo y frecuencia cardiaca) fueron usados durante cada una de las 12.5 vueltas (400 metros). Resultados: Las canciones escogidas fueron capaces de activar el área del córtex prefrontal (diferencias positivas superiores a 0.5 ua.µM). La música motivaciónal aumentó los parámetros relacionados con el rendimiento (Control – 27.02±0.35min vs Música motivacional – 25.31±0.31min; mejoró en 6.33%). El mayor tamaño del efecto fue identificado durante las primeras vueltas (Cohen’s d) (0.99 – 1ª vuelta; 0.62 – 2ª vuelta; 0.55 – 3ª vuelta; 0.61 – 4ª vuelta). La frecuencia cardíaca fue superior para la condición música motivacional, considerada una respuesta derivada del mayor trabajo físico realizado. Conclusión: La música fue capaz de activar el área del córtex prefrontal y alterar parâmetros psicofisiológicos y de rendimiento.

The present experiment sought to further understanding of the effects of personalised audiovisual stimuli on psychological and psychophysiological responses during exercise in adults with obesity. Twenty-four participants (Mage = 28.3, SD = 5.5 years; MBMI = 32.2, SD = 2.4) engaged in self-paced exercises on a recumbent cycle ergometer and three conditions (sensory stimulation [ST], sensory deprivation [DE], and control [CO]) were administered. Perceptual (attentional focus and perceived exertion), affective (affective state and perceived activation), and psychophysiological (heart rate variability) parameters were monitored throughout the exercise bouts. A one-way repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare self-reported and psychophysiological variables (main and interaction effects [5 Timepoints × 3 Conditions]). The results indicate that ST increased the use of dissociative thoughts throughout the exercise session (ηp2 = .19), ameliorated fatigue-related symptoms (ηp2 = .15) and...

To evaluate the effects of 12-weeks of walk training with self-selected intensity on lipid profile and anthropometric variables in women with obesity. Forty-eight women volunteers with obesity were randomly assigned into two training groups: self-selected walking group (SSWG; n=25) and control group (CG; n=23). There was improvement in biochemical markers only in the SSWG post-intervention (p0.05), however no changes were verified in anthropometric variables (p0.05). This study demonstrates that walking at self-selected intensity improved the lipid profile in women with obesity.

Objetivou-se investigar comportamentos de fair play e antiesportivos em jogos de futsal das categorias Sub 9 e Sub 15, por meio da avaliação dos árbitros. Participaram 17 árbitros que apitaram jogos da 1ª divisão de um campeonato de futsal em uma cidade do Paraná. Ao final de cada partida os árbitros respondiam a Ficha de Avaliação de Fair Play, que era composta por seis questões referentes à atuação dos técnicos, atletas e a própria atuação. A ficha avaliava, por meio de uma escala de 0-10, o quanto a atuação dos participantes havia sido esportiva ou antiesportiva. Os dados obtidos foram avaliados comparando-se a atribuição de notas entre as categorias observadas, entre as questões e entre as categorias e as súmulas das partidas. Análises estatísticas sugerem que há diferenças significativas referente à esportividade entre as categorias, sendo a Sub 9 a que, na opinião dos árbitros, apresentou mais comportamentos de fair play. Com relação à atribuição de notas, a análise estatística apontou para a não existência de correlação entre as notas atribuídas e a quantidade de faltas e cartões durante as partidas. Com base nos resultados obtidos e na escassez de trabalhos realizados sobre fair play com árbitros sugere-se investigações futuras.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar o efeito da suplementação de creatina sobre o desempenho físico de adultos jovens treinados submetidos a esforços intermitentes máximos no cicloergômetro. A amostra foi composta por 26 indivíduos saudáveis, do sexo masculino, que foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos, suplementado com creatina (CR, n = 13; 22,5 ± 2,7 anos; 74,9 ± 6,8 kg; 178,5 ± 4,8 cm) e placebo (PL, n = 13; 22,9 ± 3,2 anos; 71,9 ± 11,3 kg; 178,6 ± 4,0 cm). A suplementação de creatina ou placebo (maltodextrina) foi consumida por meio de delineamento duplo cego, em quatro doses de 5 g/dia durante os cinco primeiros dias (20 g/dia). A partir daí, uma única dose de 3 g/dia foi ingerida nos 51 dias subsequentes. Foi realizado um controle prévio dos hábitos alimentares e dos níveis de aptidão física dos indivíduos. Para avaliação do desempenho físico em esforços intermitentes foram realizados três Testes de Wingate (TW), separados por 2 minutos de intervalo, pré e pós-suplementação de CR ou PL. Os índices de desempenho físico analisados foram: potência de pico relativa (PPR); potência relativa a cada período de 5 s (PR); potência média relativa (PMR); trabalho total relativo (TTR) e índice de fadiga (IF). Foram coletados 25 µl de sangue no lóbulo da orelha um minuto após a realização de cada TW para a dosagem de lactato sanguíneo (LAC). Coletas de urina de 24 horas foram utilizadas para a determinar as concentrações de creatinina (CRT) antes e após o período de suplementação. Os dados foram tratados por ANOVA e ANCOVA para medidas repetidas, seguidas pelo teste post hoc de Scheffé. A PPR no TW2 foi significativamente maior (6%) para o grupo CR comparado ao grupo PL após a suplementação (p0,05). O TTR foi significativamente maior no grupo CR (3%) comparado ao PL após a suplementação (p0,05). Interação significante entre grupo e tempo foi encontrada para a CRT, indicando que o grupo CR teve sua taxa de excreção aumentada (22%) após a suplementação de creatina (p0.05). RTW was significantly larger in the group CR (3%) compared to PL after the supplementation (p0.05). Significant interaction between group and time was found for CRT, indicating that the group CR had his tax of increased excretion (22%) after the supplemented with creatine (p

Objetivo: Analisar a correlação dos recursos relacionados ao bem-estar na aposentadoria de trabalhadores de instituição universitária pública. Métodos: Estudo transversal, analítico-descritivo, desenvolvido em uma instituição universitária pública do sul do Brasil, com 295 trabalhadores. A coleta de dados ocorreu entre os meses de agosto a outubro de 2017. Foram calculadas as médias das respostas de cada domínio do Inventário de Recursos para a Aposentadoria. Realizou-se a análise bivariada para identificar as correlações entre os domínios do instrumento por meio do coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. Resultados: A maioria dos participantes pertencia à categoria técnico-administrativa ou operacional (56,9%) e docentes (43,1%), pós-graduados (67,2%). Os trabalhadores apresentaram maiores déficits relacionados ao recurso financeiro. A análise entre os constructos do instrumento demonstrou correlações de fraca à moderada entre todos os domínios (R2 variou de 0,175 – 0,566 / p-valor=0,000). Conclusão: Os recursos relacionados ao bem-estar na aposentadoria, abordados neste estudo, possuem correlação entre si, indicando a necessidade de implementar estratégias interdisciplinares de preparação para a aposentadoria, a fim de promover ao trabalhador uma pós-carreira bem-sucedida.

Objetivo: Analisar a correlação dos recursos relacionados ao bem-estar na aposentadoria de trabalhadores de instituição universitária pública. Métodos: Estudo transversal, analítico-descritivo, desenvolvido em uma instituição universitária pública do sul do Brasil, com 295 trabalhadores. A coleta de dados ocorreu entre os meses de agosto a outubro de 2017. Foram calculadas as médias das respostas de cada domínio do Inventário de Recursos para a Aposentadoria. Realizou-se a análise bivariada para identificar as correlações entre os domínios do instrumento por meio do coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. Resultados: A maioria dos participantes pertencia à categoria técnico-administrativa ou operacional (56,9%) e docentes (43,1%), pós-graduados (67,2%). Os trabalhadores apresentaram maiores déficits relacionados ao recurso financeiro. A análise entre os constructos do instrumento demonstrou correlações de fraca à moderada entre todos os domínios (R2 variou de 0,175 – 0,566 / p-valor=0,000). Conclusão: Os recursos relacionados ao bem-estar na aposentadoria, abordados neste estudo, possuem correlação entre si, indicando a necessidade de implementar estratégias interdisciplinares de preparação para a aposentadoria, a fim de promover ao trabalhador uma pós-carreira bem-sucedida.

Aim: To investigate the effects of low-intensity walk training with and without blood flow restriction (BRF) on resting heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure (BP) in middle-aged men. Methods: Twenty-one men were randomly assigned into the walk training group with (BRF-W; n = 11) and without (NOR-W; n = 10) BFR. The resting HRV and blood pressure were assessed pre- and post-6 weeks of the intervention [3 times/week, 5 sets of 3-min walking (6 km.h-1) with 1-min of rest, totalizing 18 sessions of training]. The BFR-W group received the occlusive stimulus before of training sessions though of a standard sphygmomanometer and performed the training sessions with the vascular occlusion (80-100 mmHg) in both the legs. Results: Only BRF-W group improved HRV on time domain indices (SDNN and RMSSD; p < 0.05) after training but it was not found differences on frequency domain indices. In addition, systolic blood pressure (SBP) improved after training (PRE: 128.5 ± 5.9 vs POST: 119.1 ± 8.6 mmHg; Cohen’s d = -1.30; p < 0.01) only in BFR-W group. There was not a significant difference on diastolic blood pressure (DBP) after training, however, effect size was moderate for BFR-W (Cohen’s d = -0.56; p > 0.05). Conclusion: Our results showed that walking training with blood flow restriction can improve health cardiovascular parameters in middle-aged men.

Resumo A autopercepção de saúde tem demonstrado estreita relação com indicadores de morbidade e mortalidade. Em funcionários de hospitais existe uma escassez acerca destas informações, por isso o objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a prevalência de satisfação com a saúde em trabalhadores de um Hospital Universitário (HU) e sua associação com indicadores de adiposidade, pressão arterial (PA) e de atividade física (AF). Participaram do estudo 380 adultos entre 20 e 59 anos com idade média de 43,92 (DP = 8,46) anos. A autopercepção de saúde foi avaliada mediante uma questão extraída do questionário “WHOQOL-bref”. A satisfação com a saúde foi de 60,8%, e as mulheres declararam estar menos satisfeitas. A análise ajustada pelo sexo indicou que apresentar IMC eutrófico se associou com a maior ocorrência de satisfação com a saúde (RP = 1,478 [IC 95%: 1,272 – 1,717]) seguido pela CC (RP = 1,323 [IC 95%: 1,135 – 1,541]). A PA e a AF não se associaram à autopercepção de saúde. Conclui-se que os trabalhadores do HU reconhecem os riscos à sua saúde, todavia negligenciam a importância de manter valores pressóricos adequados e ter uma prática regular de AF com o intuito de postergar o surgimento de alguma condição crônica que seja maléfica ao organismo. Abstract It has been shown that self-perceived health has a close relationship with indicators of morbidity and mortality. Since there is a lack of information on the self-perceived health status of hospital workers, the objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of satisfaction with health among people working at a University Hospital (UH) and its associations with indicators of adiposity, arterial blood pressure (BP) and physical activity (PA). A total of 380 adults took part in the study, with ages ranging from 20 to 59 and a mean age of 43.92 (SD = 8.46) years. Self-perceived health was assessed using a question from the “WHOQOL-bref” questionnaire. Overall satisfaction with health was 60.8%, and women reported lower satisfaction than men. An analysis adjusted for sex showed that having a healthy BMI was associated with the highest rate of satisfaction with health (PR = 1.478 [95%CI: 1.272 – 1.717]), followed by WC (PR = 1.323 [95%CI: 1.135 – 1.541]). Neither BP nor PA were associated with self-perceived health. It was concluded that the UH workers are aware of risks to their health, but that they do not recognize the importance of maintaining healthy blood pressure or of engaging in regular PA in order to delay onset of chronic conditions that could be harmful to them.

Aims: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of training volume (1 vs. 3 sets) on lower-body muscle strength in untrained young men. Methodsː Eighteen untrained young men were recruited and their legs were trained with 1 or 3 sets (in a contralateral design) for 6 weeks, using a knee extension machine. Isokinetic peak torque and one repetition maximum (1RM) were assessed at pre- and post-training. Resultsː There was a similar improvement in the 1RM strength (1SET: +14.8% vs. 3SET: 16.3%, P > 0.05) and peak torque (1SET: +8.1% vs. 3SET: 9.3%, P > 0.05) for both conditions from pre- to post-training. The effect size (ES) for the change in 1RM was moderate for both conditions (1SET: 1.39 vs. 3SET: 1.41), and peak torque was trivial and small for 1SET (0.47) and 3SET (0.55), respectively. Additionally, there were no significant (P > 0.05) differences in the dietary intakes from pre- to post-training. Conclusionsː Our results indicate that 1 set is as effective as 3 sets for increasing lower-body muscle strength after a short-term RT period (6 weeks) in untrained young men.

Immersive environments induced by audiovisual stimuli are hypothesised to facilitate the control of movements and ameliorate fatigue-related symptoms during exercise. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of pleasant and unpleasant audiovisual stimuli on perceptual and psychophysiological responses during moderate-intensity exercises performed on an electromagnetically braked cycle ergometer. Twenty young adults were administered three experimental conditions in a randomised and counterbalanced order: unpleasant stimulus (US; e.g. images depicting laboured breathing); pleasant stimulus (PS; e.g. images depicting pleasant emotions); and neutral stimulus (NS; e.g. neutral facial expressions). The exercise had 10 min of duration (2 min of warm-up + 6 min of exercise + 2 min of warm-down). During all conditions, the rate of perceived exertion and heart rate variability were monitored to further understanding of the moderating influence of audiovisual stimuli on perceptual and psychophysiological responses, respectively. The results of the present study indicate that PS ameliorated fatigue-related symptoms and reduced the physiological stress imposed by the exercise bout. Conversely, US increased the global activity of the autonomic nervous system and increased exertional responses to a greater degree when compared to PS. Accordingly, audiovisual stimuli appear to induce a psychophysiological response in which individuals visualise themselves within the story presented in the video. In such instances, individuals appear to copy the behaviour observed in the videos as if the situation was real. This mirroring mechanism has the potential to up-/down-regulate the cardiac work as if in fact the exercise intensities were different in each condition.

Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, the present study investigated how listening to differently valenced music is associated with changes in hemoglobin concentrations in the prefrontal cortex area, indicating changes in neural activity. Thirty healthy people (15 men; M age = 24.8yr., SD = 2.4; 15 women; M age = 25.2yr., SD = 3.1) participated. Prefrontal cortex activation, emotional responses (heart rate variability), and self-reported affective ratings were measured while listening to calm and motivational music. The songs were presented in a random counterbalanced order and separated by periods of white noise. Mixed-model repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) evaluated the relationships for main effects and interactions. The results showed that music was associated with increased activation of the prefrontal cortex area. For both sexes, listening to the motivational song was associated with higher vagal withdrawal (lower HR) than the calm song. As expected, participants rated the motivational song with greater affective valence and higher arousal. Effects persisted longer in men than in women. These findings suggest that both the characteristics of music and sex differences may significantly affect the results of emotional neuroimaging in samples of young adults.

BACKGROUND: Differences related to sexual characteristics are directly linked to the mechanisms responsible for adaptations from resistance training (RT). Due to these differences, men and women may perform their RT programs at different percentages of maximum strength even when executing the same number of repetitions. OBJECTIVE: To compare the relative repetition maximum (%1RM) at which men and women perform RT in a program controlling repetitions/set. METHODS: Thirty men (22.7 ± 4.4 years, 68.4 ± 9.0 kg, 174.5 ± 6.6 cm), and 34 women (22.7 ± 4.1 years, 58.8 ± 11.9 kg, 162.6 ± 6.2 cm) performed 16 weeks of RT, 3 times per week using 3 sets of 8–12 RM. Anthropometric measurements and 1RM test in bench press (BP), and arm curl (AC) were obtained at baseline and after the RT program. RESULTS: Women performed the training in BP at a higher %1RM than men ( P 0.05). There was not significant main effect for AC ( P> 0.05) indicating no change in %1RM at which each sex exercised. CONCLUSION: We conclude that men and women perform RT at different %1RM in BP, except for the AC during a RT program utilizing 8–12 RM per set.

OBJETIVO: O presente estudo verificou os efeitos da suplementação com cafeína associada ao exercício físico agudo sobre a resposta glicêmica em ratos diabéticos. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 32 animais, com 60 dias de idade, e 238±3 g de peso, divididos em quatro grupos: controle, controle cafeína, diabetes e diabetes/cafeína. O modelo de diabetes foi induzido pela administração intraperitoneal de 60 mg/kg de estreptozotocina. De forma aguda, os animais receberam 6 mg de cafeína ou salina para os grupos-controles 60 minutos antes do exercício físico. Os animais realizaram um protocolo de natação de 60 minutos de exercício físico, com sobrecarga de 6% do peso corporal com lactacidemia compatível com a máxima produção de lactato em estado estável (5,5 mmol/L). Após o exercício físico agudo, foi realizada a eutanásia dos animais para coleta de sangue e análises glicêmicas. Antes e após a prescrição das suplementações, ocorreu a aferição das respostas cardiovasculares por meio de um pletismógrafo de cauda. Foi realizado o teste estatístico Analise de Variância one way com post hoc de Student-Newman-Keuls para analisar as diferenças estatísticas entre as suplementações, sendo considerado p

The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of 16 weeks of resistance training (RT) on body water in men and women. Thirty men (22.7 ± 4.4 years, 68.4 ± 9.0 kg and 174.5 ± 6.6 cm) and 34 women (22.7 ± 4.1 years, 58.8 ± 11.9 kg and 162.6 ± 6.2 cm) underwent progressive RT for 16 weeks (2 phases, 8 weeks each), 3 times per week, that consisted of 10-12 whole body exercises with 3 sets of 8-12 repetitions maximum. Total body water, TBW (intracellular water, ICW and extracellular water, ECW compartments) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) were assessed using a spectral bioelectrical impedance device (Xitron 4200 Bioimpedance Spectrum Analyzer). TBW, ICW compartment and SMM increased significantly (P0.05) over time in men (+7.5%, +8.2% and +4.2%, respectively) and women (+7.6%, +11.0% +3.9%, respectively), with no sex by time interaction (P0.05). We conclude that progressive RT promotes an increase in body water, principally by intracellular content; however, the hydration status is not influenced by sex.

Frequency domain analyses in electromyographic (EMG) signals are frequently applied to assess muscle fatigue and similar variables. Moreover, Fourier-based approaches are typically used for investigating these procedures. Nonetheless, Fourier analysis assumes the signal as stationary which is unlikely during dynamic contractions. As an alternative method, wavelet-based treatments do not assume this pattern and may be considered as more appropriate for joint time-frequency domain analysis. Based on the previous statements, the purpose of the present study was to compare the application of Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) and Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) to assess muscle fatigue in dynamic exercise of a 1-km of cycling (time-trial condition). The results of this study indicated that CWT and STFT analyses have provided similar fatigue estimates (slope) (p> 0.05). However, CWT application represents lesser dispersion (pp> 0.05) according to different methods, it is important to note that these responses seem to show greater values for CWT compared to STFT for 2 superficial muscles. Thereby, we are capable of considering CWT as a reliable and useful method to take into consideration when non-stationary or oscillating exercise models are evaluated.

Motivational audiovisual stimuli such as music and video have been widely used in the realm of exercise and sport as a means by which to increase situational motivation and enhance performance. The present study addressed the mechanisms that underlie the effects of motivational stimuli on psychophysiological responses and exercise performance. Twenty-two participants completed fatiguing isometric handgrip-squeezing tasks under two experimental conditions (motivational audiovisual condition and neutral audiovisual condition) and a control condition. Electrical activity in the brain and working muscles was analyzed by use of electroencephalography and electromyography, respectively. Participants were asked to squeeze the dynamometer maximally for 30 s. A single-item motivation scale was administered after each squeeze. Results indicated that task performance and situational motivational were superior under the influence of motivational stimuli when compared to the other two conditions (~20% and ~25%, respectively). The motivational stimulus downregulated the predominance of low-frequency waves (theta) in the right frontal regions of the cortex (F8), and upregulated high-frequency waves (beta) in the central areas (C3 and C4). It is suggested that motivational sensory cues serve to readjust electrical activity in the brain; a mechanism by which the detrimental effects of fatigue on the efferent control of working muscles is ameliorated. This research was supported, in part, by grants from the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-05-02T18:18:00Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2012-01-01 We analyzed the effect of an 8-week strength training (ST) program on the rate of force development (RFD) and electromyographic activity (EMG) in older women. Seventeen women (M age = 63.4 years, SD = 4.9) without previous ST experience were randomly assigned to either a control (n = 7) or training (n = 10) group. A leg-press isometric test was used for assessment. ST (three sessions/week, three sets of 10–12 repetition maximum, five different exercises) induced significant increases (p < .05) on peak RFD (48.4%) and on RFD and EMG of vastus medialis at time intervals of 0–50, 0–100, 0–150, and 0–200 ms (41.1–69.2% and 43.8– 64.3%, respectively). Therefore, ST resulted in favorable changes in neuromuscular responses in older women. © 2012 by the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Laboratory of Physical Activity and Aging UNESP—Universidad Estadual Paulista Gait and Posture Studies Laboratory UNESP—Universidad Estadual Paulista Research and Study Group in Exercise and Aging UNOESTE—Universidad Oeste Paulista Laboratory of Cell Signaling UNICAMP—Universidad Estadual de Campinas Research and Study Group in Metabolism Nutrition and Exercise UEL—Universidad Estadual de Londrina Laboratory of Physical Activity and Aging UNESP—Universidad Estadual Paulista Gait and Posture Studies Laboratory UNESP—Universidad Estadual Paulista

O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a influência de diferentes tempos de análise dos testes submáximos para determinação do máximo déficit acumulado de oxigênio (MAOD), adotando diferentes janelas de tempo 4-6min, 6-8min e 8-10min. Participaram do estudo 10 ciclistas com idade média de 27,5 ± 4,1 anos, massa corporal 74,4 ± 12,7kg e tempo médio de prática de 9,8 ± 4,7 anos. Os atletas realizaram um teste de esforço progressivo para determinação do consumo de oxigênio de pico (VO2pico) e quatro testes retangulares submáximos (60, 70, 80 e 90% VO2pico) com 10min de duração para estimar os valores da demanda de O2 (DEO2). Os valores médios de VO2 obtidos nas cargas para o tempo 4-6min, 6-8min e 8 a 10min foram aplicados em uma regressão linear entre a intensidade e o consumo de O2 para cada janela de tempo. Os sujeitos realizaram ainda um teste retangular supramáximo (110% VO2pico) para a quantificação do MAOD. Não foi constatada nenhuma diferença significativa no VO2 entre os diferentes períodos de tempo dos testes submáximos (P > 0,05). Da mesma forma, nenhuma diferença significativa foi constatada no DEAO2 e MAOD nos diferentes períodos de análise (P > 0,05). Verificou-se ainda que os valores de MAOD obtidos nos três intervalos de tempo apresentaram boa concordância e forte correlação. Dessa forma, os dados sugerem que os testes submáximos utilizados para gerar os valores do MAOD podem ser reduzidos ao menos nesse tipo de amostra e com a utilização de ciclossimulador. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different assessment time periods of submaximal tests on the determination of the maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (MAOD), through the adoption of different time slots of 4 to 6, 6 to 8 and 8 to 10 min. Ten cyclists with mean age of 27.5 ± 4.1 years, body mass 74.4 ± 12.7 kg and time experience of 9.8 ± 4.7 years participated in this study. The athletes underwent an incremental exercise test to determine the peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), and four submaximal constant work-load test sessions (60, 70, 80 and 90% VO2peak) of 10 min in order to estimate the O2 demand (DEO2). The mean VO2 values obtained on each constant work-load for the 4 to 6, 6 to 8 and 8 to 10 min time-periods intervals were used to perform a linear regression between the intensity and O2 consumption for each time-period. In addition, the subjects performed one supramaximal rectangular test (110% VO2peak) for the quantification of MAOD. There was no significant difference in VO2 between the different time-periods for all submaximal tests (P> 0.05). Similarly, no significant difference was found in DEAO2 and MAOD (P> 0.05). Furthermore, the values of MAOD for the three time-periods intervals showed good agreement and strong correlation. Thus, the data suggest that the submaximal tests used to estimate the values of MAOD can be reduced, at least in this type of sample, and with the use of a cycle simulator.

The aims of this study were to verify the relationship between rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and electromyography (EMG) increases during exhaustive constant-load cycling bouts and, to compare and to correlate the power outputs corresponding to perceived exertion threshold (PET) and neuromuscular fatigue threshold (NFT). 11 men completed 3-4 different exhaustive constant-load cycling bouts on a cycle ergometer, being RPE and EMG measured throughout the bouts. The linear regression of the RPEslope and EMGslope against the power output identified the PET and NFT intensity, respectively. There was a significant relationship between RPEslope and EMGslope (R(2)=0.69; P

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar o impacto de oito semanas de suplementação de creatina mono-hidratada (Crm) sobre o desempenho anaeróbio de adultos jovens treinados. Vinte e seis estudantes de educação física, do sexo masculino, saudáveis, foram divididos aleatoriamente em grupo creatina (GCr, n = 13; 22,5 ± 2,7 anos; 74,9 ± 6,8kg, 178,5 ± 4,8cm) e grupo placebo (GPl, n = 13; 22,9 ± 3,2 anos, 71,9 ± 11,3kg, 178,6 ± 4,0cm). Os indivíduos ingeriram em sistema duplo-cego doses de Crm ou placebo-maltodextrina (20 g.d-1 por 5 dias e 3 g.d-1 por 51 dias subsequentes). Ambos os grupos tiveram seus hábitos alimentares e os níveis de aptidão física controlados anteriormente. O teste anaeróbio de Wingate (TW) foi usado para avaliar o desempenho anaeróbio antes e após o período de ingestão de Crm ou placebo. Os índices de desempenho analisados foram: potência pico relativa (PPR), potência média relativa (PMR), trabalho total relativo (TTR) e índice de fadiga (IF). Para tratamento estatístico foi utilizado ANOVA, seguido pelo teste de post hoc Tukey, quando P

Objective The aim of this study was to propose a new method that allows for the estimation of critical power (CP) from non-exhaustive tests using ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). Methods Twenty-two subjects underwent two practice trials for ergometer and Borg 15-point scale familiarization, and adaptation to severe exhaustive exercise. After then, four exercise bouts were performed on different days for the estimation of CP and anaerobic work capacity (AWC) by linear work-time equation, and CP15, CP17, AWC15 and AWC17 were estimated using the work and time to attainment of RPE15 and RPE17 based on the Borg 15-point scale. Results The CP, CP15 and CP17 (170–177 W) were not significantly different (P > 0.05). However, AWC, AWC15 and AWC17 were all different from each other. The correlations between CP15 and CP17, with CP were strong (R = 0.871 and 0.911, respectively), but the AWC15 and AWC17 were not significantly correlated with AWC. Conclusion Sub-maximal RPE responses can be used for the estimation of CP from non-exhaustive exercise protocols.

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o equilíbrio muscular dos flexores e extensores (RFE) de joelho ao longo de uma temporada de treinamento em jogadores de futebol categoria sub-20. Fizeram parte da amostra 15 sujeitos pertencentes à equipe sub-20 da Associação Atlética Ponte Preta de Campinas. Os atletas participaram de um macrociclo de preparação (MP) de 29 semanas, composto por período preparatório e competitivo que foram divididos em quatro mesociclos: etapa geral (M1), etapa especial (M2), etapa pré-competitiva (M3) e etapa competitiva (M4). A RFE de ambos os membros foi determinada em dinamômetro isocinético utilizando o pico de torque (PT) obtido em três séries consecutivas de cinco repetições com velocidade de 60º/s. Avaliação isocinética foi realizada em quatro momentos ao longo do MP, sempre ao final de cada mesociclo (M1, M2, M3 e M4). Para análise estatística, foi empregado teste Friedman de medidas repetidas, seguida do teste de Wilcoxon e teste U de Mann-Whitney, com nível de significância de p

The purpose of this study was to compare back muscle fatigue of younger and older participants with and without chronic low back pain (CLBP). Twenty participants without and 20 with nonspecific CLBP participated in this study. Each group contained 10 younger (50% males; mean age: 31 ± 6 yrs) and 10 older adults (50% males; age mean: 71 ± 7 yrs). Two isometric fatigue protocols were presented randomly: (1) to maintain the unsupported trunk at the horizontal position while on a 45° Roman chair for a minute, and (2) to maintain a 10% of body weight box close to the trunk in the upright position for a minute. Surface electromyography (EMG) signals from the back (multifidus and iliocostalis) and one hip (biceps femoris) muscles were recorded bilaterally, and the median frequency fatigue estimate from linear regression slopes of the EMG time-series was computed. There were no significant (P > 0.05) age effects, and group-by-age interaction in both isometric and functional fatigue tasks. However, the CLBP groups (both younger and old) displayed more back fatigue than people without CLBP in both fatigue protocols (P < 0.01; effect size varying of d = 0.17-0.32). This study was sensitive to discriminate that individuals with CLBP did present significantly more pronounced EMG back fatigue than people without CLBP, in both younger and older adults. These results have significant clinical implications for low back pain rehabilitation programs with regard to endurance assessment in both younger and older.

It has been shown that self-perceived health has a close relationship with indicators of morbidity and mortality. Since there is a lack of information on the self-perceived health status of hospital workers, the objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of satisfaction with health among people working at a University Hospital (UH) and its associations with indicators of adiposity, arterial blood pressure (BP) and physical activity (PA). A total of 380 adults took part in the study, with ages ranging from 20 to 59 and a mean age of 43.92 (SD = 8.46) years. Self-perceived health was assessed using a question from the "WHOQOL-bref" questionnaire. Overall satisfaction with health was 60.8%, and women reported lower satisfaction than men. An analysis adjusted for sex showed that having a healthy BMI was associated with the highest rate of satisfaction with health (PR = 1.478 [95%CI: 1.272 - 1.717]), followed by WC (PR = 1.323 [95%CI: 1.135 - 1.541]). Neither BP nor PA were associated with self-perceived health. It was concluded that the UH workers are aware of risks to their health, but that they do not recognize the importance of maintaining healthy blood pressure or of engaging in regular PA in order to delay onset of chronic conditions that could be harmful to them.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of acute l-arginine (l-arg) supplementation on peripheral vasodilatation and muscle performance in older women. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 20 elderly women were randomly assigned in a double-blind fashion to either an l-arg (ARG, N = 10) or placebo (PLA, N = 10) group. During the first visit, both groups underwent a Doppler ultrasound exam (to assess the femoral artery vasodilatation) at rest (baseline), and immediately before and after the isokinetic strength test (performed at 80 min after supplementation). On the second and third visits, the groups completed a battery of muscle performance tests (to assess the isometric and functional strength), initiated at the same time point (80 min after supplementation). The femoral artery blood flow (ARG: 443.9 ± 42.8 vs. PLA: 373.1 ± 40.8 ml/min; P > 0.05) and area (ARG: 0.45 ± 0.03 vs. PLA: 0.41 ± 0.02 cm2; P > 0.05) were similar between the groups at basal conditions, and they remained unchanged after supplementation. Following exercise, blood flow increased ~160 % above the basal level, and there was no significant (P > 0.05) difference between the ARG and PLA groups. Additionally, there were no significant (P > 0.05) differences between the ARG and PLA groups for any strength variable (isokinetic, isometric, and functional). These results show that acute l-arg supplementation provides no ergogenic effect on blood flow and muscle performance in older women.

Ergogenic effect of caffeine on performance in middleand long- term exercise Caffeine is a substance that does not have a nutritional value being classified as a pharmacological active alkaloid, with stimulating action on central nervous system (CNS). However, this substance has been considered a nutritional ergogenic, since it is present in several drinks consumed daily, such as coffee, chocolate, teas and some soft drinks with guarana. Its use has been common in sports, specially in last years, particularly for athletes in cycling competitions and middle- and long-distance runners. The ergogenic effect of caffeine on performance has been demonstrated after the acute ingestion of doses of caffeine between 3 and 6 mg/kg of body weight. However, it is not still clear which action mechanisms of caffeine would be involved on performance improvement of long-term exercise. The supposed diuretic effect induced by the use of caffeine has not been confirmed in practice, and it seems that it is related to employment of mega-doses of this substance. Recently, caffeine was removed of the list of the prohibited substances by the World Agency Anti-Doping (WADA). This probably implies a considerable increase of its use by athletes. Thus, it is necessary some cares when using this ergogenic substance, since the disoriented ingestion may contribute to the emergence of collateral effects influencing negatively athlete’s performance.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of hypertrophy-type resistance training (RT) on upper limb fatigue resistance in young adult men and women. Fifty-eight men (22.7±3.7 years, 70.6±9.3 kg, and 176.8±6.4 cm) and 65 women (21.6±3.7 years, 58.8±11.9 kg, and 162.6±6.2 cm) underwent RT for 16 weeks. Training consisted of 10-12 whole body exercises with 3 sets of 8-12 repetitions maximum performed 3 times per week. Before and after the RT intervention participants were submitted to 1RM testing, as well as a fatigue protocol consisting of 4 sets at 80% 1RM on bench press (BP) and arm curl (AC). The sum of the number of repetitions accomplished in the 4 sets in each exercise was used to indicate fatigue resistance. There was a significant (p

This research investigated the effects of music and its time of application on a 5-km run. Fifteen well-trained male long-distance runners (24.87 ± 2.47 years; 78.87 ± 10.57 kg; 178 ± 07 cm) participated in this study. Five randomized experimental conditions during a 5-km run on an official track were tested (PM: motivational songs, applied before 5 km of running; SM: slow motivational songs, applied during 5 km of running; FM: fast and motivational songs, applied during 5 km of running; CS: calm songs, applied after 5 km of running; CO: control condition). Psychophysiological assessments were performed before (functional near-infrared spectroscopy, heart rate variability [HRV], valence, and arousal), during (performance time, heart rate, and rate of perceived exertion [RPE]), and after (mood, RPE, and HRV) tests. The chosen songs were considered pleasurable and capable of activating. Furthermore, they activated the 3 assessed prefrontal cortex (PFC) areas (medial, right dorsolateral, and left dorsolateral) similarly, generating positive emotional consequences by autonomous system analysis. The first 800 m was accomplished faster for SM and FM compared with other conditions (p ≤ 0.05); moreover, there was a high probability of improving running performance when music was applied (SM: 89%; FM: 85%; PM: 39%). Finally, music was capable of accelerating vagal tonus after 5 km of running with CS (p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, music was able to activate the PFC area, minimize perceptions, improve performance, and accelerate recovery during 5 km of running.

Caffeine can stimulate insulin secretion by attenuating hyperglycemia in diabetes models with significant reduction of pancreatic functional β cells. Knowledge of these mechanisms could contribute to new strategies for treating diabetes.This study evaluated the effects of caffeine and physical exercise on glycemic and insulin responses in diabetic rats.The diabetes model was induced by intraperitoneal administration of 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin (STZ). Animals were divided into six groups: control, caffeine, STZ control, STZ caffeine, STZ sulfonylurea, and STZ caffeine + sulfonylurea. Acutely, control animals received 6 mg of caffeine and 10 mg/kg sulfonylurea or 10 mg/kg saline. Animals were sacrificed after physical exercise; blood samples were collected for glucose, glycerol, lactate, and insulin analyses. Cardiovascular responses were recorded before and after treatments. A one-way ANOVA and the post hoc Student-Newman-Keuls test were used to analyze statistical differences between treatments (p 0.05).About 6 mg/kg of caffeine did not alter cardiovascular responses, but promoted blood glucose reduction after 60 min of exercise when compared to animals in the control groups (387-187 mg/dL; p 0.05). Insulin levels increased significantly (0.6-10 µU/mL; p 0.05) in rats that received acute caffeine treatment associated with sulfonylurea compared to rats in the other groups.Acute caffeine intake with exercise can increase glucose uptake enhancing insulin secretion stimulated by sulfonylurea in β cells-deficient pancreas. The results indicate the potential use of caffeine as a strategy for glycemic and insulin control in diabetes.

Ha uma necessidade de estudar formas de analise para sinais EMG, ja que este metodo nao constitui formas invasivas de captacao de sinais musculares. Este trabalho tem como foco principal a explicacao do funcionamento da analise de sinais EMG utilizando a Transformada Wavelet Continua, sendo esta apresentada como uma combinacao linear de uma mother Wavelet e seus respectivos coeficientes. Toda esta analise sera efetuada para que seja possivel verificar os valores da frequencia media do musculo, dividindo o sinal em pequenos pedacos no tempo para a averiguacao do decaimento da frequencia media, indicando assim, a fadiga muscular.

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar os efeitos da ingestao de cafeina sobre o desempenho fisico e estado de humor de ciclistas em teste contra-relogio de 1 km. Dez ciclistas do sexo masculino realizaram aleatoriamente um teste contra-relogio de 1 km em duas condicoes experimentais: ingestao de cafeina (CAF - 6 mg.kg -1 ) e placebo (PL) 60 min antes do teste. Durante os testes foram obtidas as medidas de tempo total e estado humor pelo questionario de Brunel (BRUMS). Para comparacoes dos parâmetros tempo total e estado de humor foi utilizando-se do teste t de Student pareado e teste Wilcoxon , respectivamente. Nenhuma diferenca estatisticamente significante foi encontrada no tempo total e no estado de humor nas condicoes CAF e PL ( P >0,05). Os resultados sugerem que a cafeina nao melhora o desempenho fisico nem altera o estado de humor dos atletas em um teste contra-relogio de 1 km.

The aim of this study was to compare the electromyographic indices of fatigue (slope of median frequency) calculated with the fast Fourier transform (FFT) and wavelet transform (WT) in trained and untrained individuals during cycle exercise. A second objective was to compare the variance of the spectral parameters (median frequency - MF) obtained by the FFT and WT during exercise. Twelve cyclists and non-cyclists performed a maximal incremental test to determine the peak power (Wp) and electromyographic activity of the vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris (RF), biceps femoris (BF), semitendinous (ST) and tibialis anterior (TA). Mean values of median frequency, determined by the FFT and WT, were used for the spectral analysis of the electromyographic signals of the studied muscles. The analyzed parameters were obtained for each time period corresponding to 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of total duration of the maximal incremental test. No statistically significant differences were found in the values of MF and electromyographic indices of fatigue between the two techniques (FT and WT) both in the cyclists and non-cyclists group (P>0.05). Regarding the MF variance, statistically significant differences were found in all analyzed muscles, as well as in different time periods, both in the cyclists and non-cyclists groups when comparing the FFT and WT techniques (P

Camata, TV, Altimari, LR, Bortolotti, H, Dantas, JL, Fontes, EB, Smirmaul, BPC, Okano, AH, Chacon-Mikahil, MPT, and Moraes, AC. Electromyographic activity and rate of muscle fatigue of the quadriceps femoris during cycling exercise in the severe domain. J Strength Cond Res 25(9): 2537-2543, 2011-This study compared the activation pattern and the fatigue rate among the superficial muscles of the quadriceps femoris (QF) during severe cycling exercise. Peak oxygen consumption (VO peak) and maximal accumulated oxygen Deficit (MAOD) were established by 10 well-trained male cyclists (27.5 ± 4.1 years, 71.0 ± 10.3 kg, 173.4 ± 6.6 cm, mean VO peak 56.7 ± 4.4 ml·kg min , mean MAOD 5.7 ± 1.1 L). Muscle activity (electromyographic [EMG] signals) was obtained during the supramaximal constant workload test (MAOD) and expressed by root mean square (RMS) and median frequency (MF slope). The RMS of the QF, vastus lateralis (VL) and vastus medialis (VM) muscles were significantly higher than at the beginning after 75% of exercise duration, whereas for the rectus femoris (RF), this was observed after 50% of exercise duration (p ≤ 0.05). The slope of the MF was significantly higher in the RF, followed by the VL and VM (23.13 ± 0.52 vs. 22.61 ± 0.62 vs. 21.81 ± 0.56, respectively; p < 0.05). We conclude that RF may play an important role in limiting performance during severe cycling exercise.

The objective of this study was to investigate possible differences in the EMG signal spectral analysis of the superficial quadriceps muscles, using the techniques short-time Fourier transform (STFT) and continues Wavelet (CWT) db4 type during constant load submaximal cycling exercise. Fourteen male subjects, healthy and physically active (25.8 ± 3.3 years, 82.1 ± 7.3 kg, 181.3 ± 5.5 cm) were submitted to constant load submaximal test (Tcons) with exercise intensity corresponding to 80% of maximum load until voluntary exhaustion. The EMG of the vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM) and rectus femoris (RF) of the right leg were recorded throughout the period of the Tcons to obtain the parameters: median frequency (MF), fatigue index EMG (FIslp) and variance of MF. The results showed no statistically significant differences for the variables MF, FIslp and variance of MF in any of the muscles examined in different time periods, when comparing STFT and CWT (P> 0.05). Thus, our findings suggest the use of both analytical techniques in constant load submaximal cycling exercise when the target is to quantify muscle fatigue with EMG spectral indicators.

Alguns estudos tem demonstrado que a simples presenca de carboidrato na boca humana pode favorecer a ativacao de algumas regioes cerebrais especificas com impacto positivo para a melhoria do desempenho fisico. Assim, recentemente, a estrategia de enxague bucal com carboidrato tem sido adotada com sucesso em exercicios fisicos intensos (>70%VO2max) com duracao de, aproximadamente, 60 min. Nesse sentido, o proposito deste estudo foi discutir, com base nas informacoes disponiveis na literatura, a eficacia ou nao da estrategia de enxague bucal com carboidrato para a melhoria do desempenho fisico, bem como os possiveis mecanismos envolvidos. Os resultados produzidos, embora ainda preliminares, sao bastante promissores, o que nos leva a acreditar que o enxague bucal com carboidrato possa ser uma estrategia bastante interessante, sobretudo, pela facil aplicabilidade, baixo custo e boa eficacia para a melhoria do desempenho fisico em esforcos fisicos intensos e prolongados.

– The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of different distance com -binations on critical velocity (CV) and anaerobic work capacity (AWC). Nineteen swimmers experienced in this training modality participated in the study. CV was calculated by the angular coefficient of the linear regression line between distance and time obtained for each repetition. Five distances (50, 100, 200, 400 and 800 m) performed at an interval of 24 hours were used for the determination of CV, followed by the following four combinations of distances: CV1 (50, 100 and 200 m), CV2 (100, 200 and 400 m), CV3 (200, 400 and 800 m), and CV4 (50, 100, 200, 400 and 800 m). The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to determine the normality of the data. One-way ANOVA was used for comparisons between CV and the different combinations of shots (p

– The aim of the present study was to investigate the correlation between anthropometric parameters (weight, height, body fat, BMI) and performance indicators (playing time, points, rebounds, errors, steals) in female national basketball players. The study was conducted during the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games. Data were analyzed by ANOVA with random effects. Pearson’s simple correlation coefficients were also determined. No difference in anthropometric profile or performance indicators was observed between the two national teams (2000 and 2004). There was a significant correlation (r = 0.61, p

Frequency domain analyses of changes in electromyographic (EMG) signals over time are frequently used to assess muscle fatigue. Fourier based approaches are typically used in these analyses, yet Fourier analysis assumes signal stationarity, which is unlikely during dynamic contractions. Wavelet based methods of signal analysis do not assume stationarity and may be more appropriate for joint time-frequency domain analysis. The purpose of this study was to compare Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) and Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) in assessing muscle fatigue in supramaximal constant load dynamic exercise (110% VO2peak). The results of this study indicate that CWT and STFT analyses give similar fatigue estimates (slope of median frequency) in supramaximal constant load dynamic exercise (P>0.05). However, the results of the variance was significantly lower for at least one of the muscles studied in CWT compared to STFT (P

Frequency domain analyses of changes in electromyographic (EMG) signals over time are frequently used to assess muscle fatigue. Fourier based approaches are typically used in these analyses, yet Fourier analysis assumes signal stationarity, which is unlikely during dynamic contractions. Wavelet based methods of signal analysis do not assume stationarity and may be more appropriate for joint time-frequency domain analysis. The purpose of this study was to compare Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) and Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) in assessing muscle fatigue in isometric and dynamic exercise. The results of this study indicate that CWT and STFT analyses give similar fatigue estimates (slope of median frequency) in isometric and dynamic exercise (P>0.05). However, the results of the variance was lower for both types of exercise in CWT compared to STFT (P

A maioria dos esportes coletivos (ex.: futebol, basquete, handebol) tem como característica a intermitência, flutuando entre breves períodos de esforços máximos ou próximos ao máximo seguidos de períodos e formas de recuperação. Alguns autores têm proposto diversos testes que tem por finalidade mensurar a capacidade desses atletas em realizar esforços repetidos máximos (RSA), a qual estaria diretamente relacionada aos momentos decisivos durante partida. Dessa forma, o presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever os diferentes protocolos de testes para avaliar a RSA em jogadores de futebol, com base em artigos originais e algumas revisões levantadas na base de dados Medline. Diante dos achados, sugerimos a utilização de quatro protocolos, dois envolvendo sprints lineares (AZIZ et al., 2008; REILLY, 2001) e dois utilizando sprints com mudanças de direção (BANGSBO, 2008; IMPELLIZZERI et al., 2008) para avaliação da RSA em jogadores de futebol, gerando importantes parâmetros de desempenho, que permitem ainda a elaboração de programas de treinamento para a melhora dessa capacidade. Recomendamos ainda, a utilização do tempo médio e/ou total como uma medida geral da capacidade de realizar sprints repetidos e as parciais de tempo de cada sprint para identificar possíveis pontos fortes e fraco de cada atleta. The most of team sports (soccer, basketball, handball) is characterized by intermittency, fluctuating between brief periods of maximum effort or near the maximum followed by periods and forms of recovery. Some authors have proposed several tests to measure the ability of these athletes to perform repeated sprints (repeated sprint ability - RSA), which would be directly related to the decisive moments during match. Then, this study aimed to describe the different test protocols to assess RSA in soccer players, based on original articles and reviews selected in some databases (Medline). Therefore, we suggest four protocols, two involving sprints linear (Aziz et al. 2008; Reilly, 2001) and two involving sprints with changes of direction (Bangsbo, 2008; Impellizzeri et al., 2008) to evaluate the RSA in soccer players, generating important performance parameters, which allow to develop training programs to improve that capacity. We also recommend the use of average and/or total time as a general measure of ability to perform repeated sprints and the partial duration of each sprint to identify strengths and weakness of each athlete.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of caffeine intake on critical power model parameters determined on a cycle ergometer. Eight male subjects participated in this study. A double-blind protocol consisting of the intake of pure caffeine (6 mg/kg) or placebo (maltodextrin) 60 min before testing was used. Subjects were submitted to four constant-load tests on a cycle ergometer. These tests were conducted randomly in the caffeine and placebo groups [checar] at intensities of 80, 90, 100 and 110% maximum power at a rate of 70 rpm until exhaustion to determine the critical power. As a criterion for stopping the test was adopted any rate fall without recovery by more than five seconds. The critical power and anaerobic work capacity were obtained by nonlinear regression and fitting of the curve to a hyperbolic power-time model. The Shapiro-Wilk test and paired Student t-test were used for statistical analysis. No significant differences in critical power were observed between the caffeine and placebo groups (192.9 ± 31.3 vs 197.7 ± 29.4 W, respectively). The anaerobic work capacity was significantly higher in the caffeine group (20.1 ± 5.2 vs 16.3 ± 4.2 W, p